Canadian Lawmakers Advance Bill to Prohibit Crypto Donations in Politics

A ban on cryptocurrency donations in Canadian politics has moved closer to becoming law after gaining cross-party support. The proposed legislation, known as Bill C-25 or the Strong and Free Elections Act, has passed its second reading in the House of Commons and will now undergo further review. The bill aims to prohibit political contributions made in cryptocurrency due to concerns over their traceability. If enacted, the ban would apply to all federal political entities, including parties, candidates, and third-party advertisers. Recipients of illegal crypto donations would be required to return or remit them within 30 days. The bill's progression comes despite initial questions from Conservative lawmakers, who ultimately chose not to challenge the proposed ban. This development reflects the limited use of cryptocurrency in Canadian politics, with no major party having publicly accepted such donations to date.